Comparison of surface topography changes from conventional metal brackets and self-ligating metal brackets after immersion in three different mouthwashes using atomic force microscopy: An in vitro study

In orthodontics, the surface roughness and corrosion behavior due to metal ion releases in orthodontic brackets and archwires affect the effectiveness of tooth movement. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) can provide three-dimensional information measurements which are used to evaluate the quantitative analysis of the surface changes of orthodontic brackets. Stainless steel orthodontic brackets and wires can release metal ions which lead to corrosion when exposed to various types of mouthwash. Aim: The main aim of this study is to compare and evaluate the surface changes from conventional metal brackets and self-ligating metal brackets after immersion in three different mouthwashes. Materials and Methods: Sixteen conventional metal brackets and sixteen metal self-ligating brackets were evenly grouped and immersed in deionized water, chlorhexidine mouthwash, herbal mouthwash, and betadine mouthwash for seven days and the surface changes were evaluated using nondestructive AFM. Results: The surface roughness was evaluated at 30 μm and the results showed that more surface roughness was observed P < 0.05 in betadine mouthwash groups and followed by herbal mouthwash and least in chlorhexidine mouthwash. Conclusion: Based on the AFM results, the surface changes were more pronounced in both groups which were immersed in betadine and herbal mouthwash than others and the choice of mouthwash should be considered before prescribing to the patients.